Those who struggle with depression may resort to alcohol as a form of self-medication. In order to stop themselves from feeling down, they drink. The problem is that although alcohol can provide a sense of calm or happiness, in reality, it is a depressant that can only serve to worsen the feeling brought on by depression. Liquor can also trigger depressive feelings, and lead to dangerous consequences. Due to the harmful effects caused by alcohol in the brain, those who abuse or are dependent on it may run a greater risk of developing symptoms of depression. Others may be genetically predisposed to both conditions.

Alcohol can cause sleeping problems, which in turn, can make the symptoms of depression more severe. It does not allow the individual to reach a deeper stage of sleep, therefore, affecting the amount of rest they get and lowering their chances of feeling re-energized and restored when they wake up. This lack of sleep increases the feelings of depression and can affect concentration, memory and cause exhaustion.

According to the National Institute of Health, nearly one-third of those who suffer from Major Depressive Disorder also have a problem with alcohol. Those who are depressed and abusing alcohol are also more at risk for suicidal thoughts or actions.

If you have been struggling with alcohol and depression in Little Rock, there is help. Call Alcohol Treatment Centers Little Rock now at (501) 708-2757to discuss your mental health and addiction treatment options.

Mixing Alcohol with Antidepressants

Prescription drug abuse and alcohol can be a deadly combination. The effects of the antidepressant can be inhibited by the drink. When mixed, these two substances can cause drowsiness, impaired coordination, increased blood pressure, which could lead to stroke.

Those who mix the two are at much greater risk of causing harm to themselves or others. Drinking increases the possibility of risky behavior since it dulls inhibitions and increases impulsivity. It also affects judgment, so many are incapable of making clear and rational decisions. This can lead to dangerous scenarios and behaviors that put their life or health at risk.

Signs that someone is suffering from alcoholic depression include:

Unpredictable mood swings

Sudden change in personality

Low self-esteem

Constant worry about drinking

Loss of interest in activities or hobbies they once liked

Isolating themselves from family, friends or co-workers

Tiredness

Insomnia

Suicidal thoughts or actions

Body tremors

Irritability

Weight gain

Legal troubles associated with drinking

Treatment for Alcohol and Depression in Little Rock

Programs designed to treat dual diagnosis patients are those that focus on the mental disorder as well as the drug or alcohol addiction. These patients require counseling, medication management, and assistance through the detox process, support from family and friends and a relapse prevention plan, among other things.

When beginning treatment, patients and professional therapists should work together to create a treatment plan for recovery. Some of these steps can include:

Help the patient to understand and pinpoint the root and onset of the depression

Encourage the patient to make changes in his or her life in order to commit to a life free of drugs

Teach the patient the tools and techniques needed to handle negative or tempting situations as well as negative thoughts.

Help the patient identify their addiction triggers and addictive behaviors, and give them the tools necessary to change those behaviors and avoid the triggers.

It is important to have a supportive environment and experienced professionals that can help you overcome your alcoholic depression. Addiction can be an overpowering condition on its own, but when mental health issues are also present, it can make things unbearable. Clinical depression and alcoholism require the appropriate programs, treatment and medication management in order to make a successful recovery.

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